As the Christian church began 2000 or so years ago, the disciples saw that church grow exponentially in its effectiveness, in its community in its evangelical witness, and in its care for people. As with any church growth, it also increases the need for good Biblical servant leadership.

Acts 6:1 says this, "Now in these days when the disciples were increasing in number, a complaint by the Hellenists arose against the Hebrews because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution." So, in the midst of a flourishing church, there were widows not being attended to, needs that were not being met, and people being left out. The disciples understood that the ministry was first and foremost to he word of God, and the process of making disciples. So what was the result? What was the next step? The disciples prayed over and they instated what we now call Deacons to oversee shepherding and the care of the ever growing flock. These men were not just servants but servant leaders. In fact the first Christian martyr was the first Deacon. Servant leadership is how the church is cared for, poured into, and multiplied. Look at verse 7 of Acts, Chapter 6, after Deacons were put in place. "And the word of God continued to increase, and the numbers of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a great many of the priests became obedient to the faith." When men are committed to the growth of the church, and a plurality of leadership oversee the shepherding and care then everyone can be freed up to use their gifts and abilities. When this happens, the church doesn't just grow, it flourishes. People don't just become more religious, the become more righteous. People are not just more interested in church, they become more invested in the Savior.

On April 8th, we will begin the process of adding to our deacon body. Starting then, you will have the opportunity to nominate men that you believe are Biblically qualified to be servant leaders in this church. As a member of North Acres, I would ask you to partner with this community to pray diligently over who from amongst us can be the type of servant leader we need. Nominations will run through Sunday May 6th. Upon the completion of that time, the current deacons and I will prayerfully process these nominations, do interviews, and meet with each viable candidate. Upon this thorough and prayerful process, we will identify men who will go on the ballot. At the following business meeting, we will vote as per our by-laws for the men from that list that we want to call to ordain as deacons.

Thank you in advance for your prayer and support of our church in this process.